RadioShack All-Star Futures Game MVP Award to be named after Larry Doby

Major League Baseball announced today that it has officially named the RadioShack All-Star Futures Game Most Valuable Player Award in honor of Hall of Fame outfielder Larry Doby.

At the conclusion of the 2002 RadioShack All-Star Futures Game on Sunday, July 7, at Miller Park in Milwaukee, the first-ever Larry Doby Trophy, produced by Tiffany & Co., will be presented to the game's Most Valuable Player.

"This honor is a fitting tribute to a true pioneer who has made so many lasting contributions to the game of baseball both on and off the field," said Jimmie Lee Solomon, Senior Vice President, Baseball Operations for Major League Baseball. "The RadioShack All-Star Futures Game is a glimpse into the future of baseball and this award ensures that Larry's legacy will continue to honor the future of the game for generations to come."

Doby, a seven-time American League All-Star, became the first African-American player in the American League when he pinch-hit for the Cleveland Indians at Comiskey Park on July 5, 1947, just 11 weeks after Jackie Robinson played his first game for the Brooklyn Dodgers. During his 10 seasons with the Indians, Doby led them to two World Series appearances, including the franchise's last World Championship in 1948 where he batted .318 and hit a decisive solo home run in Game Four. A two-time American League home run champion, Doby, who also played for the Chicago White Sox and Detroit Tigers, finished his 13-year career with a .283 batting average, 253 home runs and 970 RBI.

In addition to his many accomplishments as a player, Doby became the second African-American manager in Major League history when he was promoted from coach to replace Bob Lemon as skipper of the White Sox on June 30, 1978. Prior to being named manager of the White Sox, he also served as a coach for the Montreal Expos (1971-73, 1976), Indians (1974) and White Sox (1977-78).

Now in its fourth year, the RadioShack All-Star Futures Game features the top U.S. and International Minor League prospects competing against each other as part of RadioShack All-Star Sunday. The seven-inning affair will begin at 4:30 p.m. (CDT) and will be televised live on ESPN2.

As part of RadioShack All-Star Sunday, the first 10,000 fans in attendance at Miller Park on July 7 will receive a commemorative RadioShack All-Star Futures Game bobblehead doll featuring current Brewers pitcher Ben Sheets in the United States uniform he wore while playing in the 2000 All-Star Futures Game at Turner Field in Atlanta.

Tickets for RadioShack All-Star Sunday are still available at the Miller Park box office, by telephone at 800-656-0667 or via the Internet at www.mlb.com.